antiurolithic

Antiurolithic refers to substances or therapies that aim to prevent the formation or recurrence of urinary stones, a condition known as urolithiasis. Urinary stones most commonly consist of calcium oxalate, but can also be uric acid, calcium phosphate, or cystine stones. Antiurolithic strategies work by altering urine chemistry to reduce crystallization, increasing the solubility of stone-forming substances, or decreasing the production of stone precursors.

Pharmacologic approaches commonly used include thiazide diuretics, which reduce urinary calcium excretion; potassium citrate and other citrate preparations, which raise urine citrate and pH to inhibit calcium stone formation and aid dissolution of uric acid stones; and allopurinol, which lowers uric acid production for individuals with hyperuricosuria. In cystinuria, agents such as tiopronin or penicillamine may be used to reduce cystine stone formation. Nonpharmacologic measures, important in many cases, include high fluid intake to dilute urine, dietary sodium restriction, and, in some situations, regulated calcium intake to balance stone risk.

Indications for antiurolithic therapy typically involve a history of recurrent stones or identified metabolic abnormalities that favor stone formation. Effectiveness varies by stone type and individual factors, and treatment plans are usually tailored to the patient’s metabolic profile. Monitoring typically includes regular urine analyses and imaging as indicated, with attention to potential side effects and interactions.

See also urolithiasis, nephrolithiasis, and metabolic stone evaluation.